Freed From Sin: A Study on Romans 6:7
This study explores the profound truth of Romans 6:7, 'For he that is dead is freed from sin,' examining what it means to die to sin, be buried with Christ through baptism in His name, and rise to walk in newness of life by the power of the Holy Spirit. We will delve into the practical aspects of sanctification and living a life of freedom from sin's dominion.
1. The Old Man Crucified
1.1 Identifying the 'Old Man'
Verses: Romans 6:6; Ephesians 4:22; Colossians 3:9
- Our former sinful nature, characterized by disobedience and self-will.
- The person we were before conversion, living according to the flesh.
- The carnal mind, which is at enmity with God and His ways.
1.2 Crucified with Christ
Verses: Romans 6:6; Galatians 2:20; Galatians 5:24
- A spiritual identification with Jesus' death on the cross.
- The old self, with its sinful desires and habits, is put to death.
- A decisive break from the power and dominion of sin in our lives.
1.3 Freed from Sin's Dominion
Verses: Romans 6:7; Romans 6:14; John 8:36
- Sin no longer has mastery over us; we are no longer its slaves.
- Through Christ, we are emancipated from the bondage of sin.
- A new liberty and freedom to choose righteousness and serve God.
1.4 The Purpose of Christ's Death
Verses: Romans 6:10; Hebrews 9:26; 1 Peter 2:24
- Jesus died once for all, conquering sin's power and penalty.
- His sacrifice was a complete and final atonement for our sins.
- Through His stripes, we are healed and delivered from sin's effects.
2. Burial and Resurrection through Baptism
2.1 Identification with Christ's Burial
Verses: Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12; Acts 2:38
- Water baptism symbolizes our burial with Christ, putting off the old life.
- It is a public declaration of our faith and commitment to Him.
- We are immersed into His death, signifying the end of our old self.
2.2 Raised to Newness of Life
Verses: Romans 6:4; Colossians 2:12; 2 Corinthians 5:17
- A spiritual resurrection, emerging from the water to a transformed existence.
- Walking in a new way of life, empowered by God's Spirit.
- We become new creations in Christ, leaving the past behind.
2.3 The Name of Jesus in Baptism
Verses: Acts 2:38; Acts 8:16; Acts 19:5
- Baptism is commanded in the name of Jesus for the remission of sins.
- It is the proper formula for Christian baptism, identifying us with Him.
- This act signifies our complete identification with the one true God, Jesus Christ.
2.4 Washing Away Sins
Verses: Acts 22:16; Ephesians 5:26; Titus 3:5
- Baptism is a spiritual washing, cleansing us from past sins.
- It is a vital part of the new birth experience, bringing remission of sins.
- God's grace works through this ordinance to purify and renew us.
3. Living by the Spirit
3.1 The Indwelling Spirit
Verses: Romans 8:9; 1 Corinthians 6:19; Acts 2:4
- The Holy Spirit is the divine power for our new life in Christ.
- The Spirit's presence within the believer empowers us to live righteously.
- The initial evidence of receiving the Spirit is speaking in other tongues, as the Spirit gives utterance.
3.2 Walking in the Spirit
Verses: Galatians 5:16; Romans 8:4; Romans 8:13
- Allowing the Spirit to guide our actions, thoughts, and decisions daily.
- Overcoming the desires of the flesh by yielding to the Spirit's leading.
- Living a life that is pleasing to God and reflects His character.
3.3 The Fruit of the Spirit
Verses: Galatians 5:22-23; Ephesians 5:9; Colossians 3:12
- Evidences of the Spirit's work in our lives, transforming our character.
- Developing virtues like love, joy, peace, and self-control.
- Reflecting the nature of Christ through our attitudes and actions.
3.4 Empowerment for Witness
Verses: Acts 1:8; Luke 24:49; John 14:26
- The Holy Spirit provides power to be effective witnesses for Christ.
- He equips us with divine ability to share the Gospel.
- The Spirit teaches and reminds us of all things pertaining to God's will.
4. Continual Sanctification
4.1 Presenting Ourselves to God
Verses: Romans 6:13; Romans 12:1; 1 Peter 1:15-16
- Offering our bodies as living sacrifices, holy and acceptable to God.
- Choosing daily to serve righteousness rather than sin.
- A continual commitment to holiness in all our conduct.
4.2 Renewing the Mind
Verses: Romans 12:2; Ephesians 4:23; Philippians 4:8
- Transforming our thoughts and attitudes to align with God's word.
- Guarding against worldly influences and carnal thinking.
- Focusing on what is true, noble, right, pure, lovely, and admirable.
4.3 Overcoming Temptation
Verses: 1 Corinthians 10:13; James 4:7; 1 John 2:16
- God provides a way of escape from every temptation we face.
- Resisting the devil and his schemes, knowing he will flee from us.
- Relying on God's strength and the power of His Spirit to conquer sin.
4.4 Growing in Grace
Verses: 2 Peter 3:18; Ephesians 4:15; Philippians 1:6
- A lifelong process of spiritual growth and maturity.
- Increasing in our knowledge of Jesus Christ and His will.
- God, who began a good work in us, will carry it on to completion.
5. The Hope of Glorification
5.1 Future Freedom from Sin's Presence
Verses: 1 John 3:2; Romans 8:23; Philippians 3:21
- Complete deliverance from sin's effects and its very presence.
- Receiving a glorified body, free from corruption and weakness.
- Eternal life with God, where sin and sorrow will be no more.
5.2 Living with Purpose
Verses: Colossians 3:1-2; 1 Corinthians 15:58; Titus 2:11-14
- Setting our affections on things above, not on earthly things.
- Abounding in the work of the Lord, knowing our labor is not in vain.
- Living expectantly for Christ's return, while actively serving Him now.
5.3 Eternal Inheritance
Verses: 1 Peter 1:4; Romans 8:17; Revelation 21:7
- An inheritance incorruptible, undefiled, and unfading, reserved in heaven.
- Joint heirs with Christ, sharing in His glory and kingdom.
- God's promise of eternal life and fellowship with Him for the faithful.
5.4 The Blessed Hope
Verses: Titus 2:13; John 14:3; 1 Thessalonians 4:16-17
- Looking for the glorious appearing of our great God and Savior, Jesus Christ.
- Jesus will come again to receive us unto Himself.
- The rapture of the church, when believers will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air.